acumen
Americannoun
noun
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of acumen
First recorded in 1525–35; from Latin acūmen “sharpness,” from acū-, stem of acuere “to sharpen” ( see acute) + -men, noun suffix
Explanation
If you have acumen, you are very sharp at what you do. You hope your accountant and your surgeon are both known for their acumen. The noun acumen comes from the Latin word acumen, meaning “a point,” or “sting.” If you are able to make pointed decisions, if you have a sharp intellect, if you make good strategic moves, if you are successful in your field, or if your business instincts are spot-on, you have acumen. Even if you inherit an entire wholesale furniture dynasty from your grandfather, you could end up with nothing if you don’t have his business acumen.
Vocabulary lists containing acumen
100 Words Every High School Graduate Should Know
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300 Most Difficult "SAT" Words
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GRE Verbal Reasoning, List 1
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
One of President Donald Trump's favorite metaphors is that he's got the cards -- that through the might of the United States and his own acumen he can overpower any adversary.
From Barron's • May 11, 2026
She is known for her strategic acumen and comfort in the corporate norms of Wall Street, including a fondness for scheduled meetings and slide decks that ensure nothing is left to chance.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 2, 2026
With his tactical acumen and leadership skills, he could have a great managerial career - whether that involves building a legacy in Germany or moving back to England.
From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026
Marty Krofft’s business acumen was why the partnership with brother Sid Krofft, which produced ‘H.R. Pufnstuf’ and ‘Land of the Lost,’ still influences TV.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026
The next day, Lourdes works extraconscientiously, determined to prove to herself that her business acumen, at least, is intact.
From "Dreaming in Cuban" by Cristina García
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
